TAITO today released DARIUSBURST SECOND PROLOGUE for iPhone, iPod touch and iPad. Available for download from the App Store, the science fiction shooter combines elements from both its console and arcade game predecessors, and is the first edition of DARIUSBURST to be released abroad. Here is more info on this new iOS game:

DARIUSBURST SECOND PROLOGUE is the latest installment in a series that began with the release of the original DARIUS arcade game in 1986. (DARIUS was sold in some territories under the title SAGAIA.) Chronicling the struggle to save the planet Darius from the invading Belser Army, the series’ aquatic-themed boss enemies and branching stage design quickly gathered a devoted following. The franchise experienced a long-awaited revival in 2009, with the release of DARIUSBURST for the PSP. The latest game, DARIUSBURST SECOND PROLOGUE, incorporates elements from both DARIUSBURST and its arcade follow-up DARIUSBURST ANOTHER CHRONICLE.

Far from a simple conversion, special care has been taken to ensure the most optimal iPhone experience possible. In addition to an updated version of the original PSP system DARIUSBURST game, this version includes a “remixed” SP Mode featuring new enemy attack patterns and two new boss battles featuring enemies from DARIUSBURST ANOTHER CHRONICLE. The Silver Hawk ships seen in the PSP system edition are all present and accounted for, and are joined by the new Assault Silver Hawk. First seen in DARIUSBURST ANOTHER CHRONICLE EX, the Assault Silver Hawk’s special defense system makes it ideal for newcomers to the shooting genre and those seeking a more casual experience.

DARIUSBURST SECOND PROLOGUE boasts Retina graphics and full iPad compatibility; no pixel doubling necessary. The touch controls are both intuitive and stress-free, and the screen layout is fully customizable, allowing players to adjust the button layout to suit their personal preferences. Also unique to the iPhone edition are four all-new tracks by TAITO’s popular ZUNTATA sound team, and an in-game visual catalog containing unlockable design illustrations and character models. Game Center support rounds out the package, with 59 challenging achievements and a variety of global leaderboards.